Florida is best known as a vacation destination, with its sunny beaches and multitude of theme parks. While parks like Disney and Busch Gardens typically get all the hype, there are plenty of underrated yet fantastic theme parks in the Sunshine State. We’ve listed our top five favorite underrated Florida theme parks to help you get started on planning your next family vacation. 
Gatorland
Gatorland is one of the oldest theme parks in Florida. Opened in 1949, this tribute to one of Florida’s most iconic reptiles is a favorite among locals and is the perfect quirky destination to not only learn about Florida wildlife but also provide plenty of thrills to both the young and young at heart.
Located at 14501 S. Orange Blossom Trail in Orlando Florida, this park is home to thousands of alligators, including four rare white gators plus the Screamin’ Gator Zipline and educational animal shows.
Magical Midway
With a raised go-kart track, Space Blast Tower, carousel, bumper cars, and Orlando’s largest arcade, Magical Midway is a popular park for thrill seekers. The park is located at 7001 International Drive and is a much more budget-friendly alternative to Epcot or Disney. We would be remiss not to mention that Magical Midway is home to the world’s largest Sling Shot and Starflyer which attract visitors from all over the country.
Big Kahuna’s Water & Adventure Park
Located at 1007 US Highway 98 in East Destin, Big Kahuna’s Water and Adventure Park is the top destination in Northwest Florida for theme park fun. Featuring over 40 different adventurous water play areas, slides, rides, and pools, there’s no better place to cool off during a hot Panhandle summer.
There are plenty of options for park-goers. Looking to kick back and relax? You’ll enjoy the lazy river or any of the various pools. If thrills are more your style, be sure to check out the 5-story Jumanji slide.
Scream-A-Geddon
Scream-A-Geddon is a horror theme park best suited for teens and adults. With plenty of spooky attractions and terrifying houses, Scream-A-Geddon is a popular destination for Halloween enthusiasts who are looking to skip the lines at the annual Halloween attractions at other major parks or who want a more intense experience.
Scream-A-Geddon has six distinct and unique attractions on its grounds and is located at 27839 Saint Joe Rd in Dade City. Unfortunately, the park is only open in October, so be sure to buy your tickets ahead of time to ensure you can get in.
Dinosaur World
Beloved by many Florida residents and visitors, Dinosaur World is an educational theme park that is home to tons of massive dinosaur sculptures that are fantastically replicated. The park runs a number of different educational programs plus there’s a dinosaur-themed playground that’s always a hit with the kids. A museum on site provides additional educational opportunities and there are several interactive exhibits ranging from a fossil dig to Dino Gem Excavation.
This park is located at 5145 Harvey Tew Road in Plant City.
These five parks are often overshadowed by the big names in theme parks but are all fun, exciting ways to spend an afternoon or even a whole weekend.
Image via Flickr by Alicia
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